The Indian government has promised to pay for the renovation of the Kankesanthurai (KKS) Port in the Jaffna area of northern Sri Lanka, a move that represents stronger connections between the two countries. This choice demonstrates India's dedication to promoting economic growth in its neighboring nations and its position as a vital partner in the development of the region's infrastructure. 

The rehabilitation project, expected to cost USD 61.5 million, has been approved by the Cabinet of Sri Lanka, with India offering to pay the full amount. The port, which is about 16 acres in size, is located 104 kilometers away from Karaikal Port in Pondicherry. It is anticipated that the rehabilitation will improve connection and commercial contact between Sri Lanka and India through the ferry route.

For many years, the Kankesanthurai Port, located in Sri Lanka's strategically important northern province, has served as a major hub for maritime transit and trade. But to satisfy modern demands and efficiently manage the growing volume of maritime activity, the port needed extensive renovations.  

Beyond merely being an infrastructure project, India's redevelopment of Kankesanthurai Port is a calculated investment in the stability and prosperity of the South Asian region. The port is anticipated to be a major player in regional trade, acting as a conduit for products and services between Sri Lanka and India. 

The major timeline of events:

May 2, 2017: The Sri Lankan government granted the Kankesanthurai Port project initial cabinet approval. 

December 18, 2019: The project's implementation advanced with the approval of providing project management consultant services. 

Early in 2021: it was confirmed that construction on the Kankesanthurai Port would begin. Retired General Daya Ratnayake, Chairman of the Ports Authority, made this announcement. 

March 2024: the project's entire cost of USD 61.5 million was revealed. The financial scale of the renovation was made clear by this declaration. 

April 30, 2024: India agreed to finance the entire project, which would have cost USD 61.5 million after the Sri Lankan Cabinet resolved to rehabilitate the Kankesanthurai Port in the Northern Province. Higher than anticipated costs caused the project's execution to be delayed, which prompted talks with India about finishing it through the Public Private Partnership Method. 

May 2, 2024: The Kankesanthurai Port restoration was approved by the Sri Lankan Cabinet with India providing full funding for the project. On April 30, 2024, an official announcement was issued announcing this decision. 

India wants to maintain a balance of power in the Indian Ocean region, especially in light of China's increasing influence. This is why it is interested in building the KKS Port.

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